PHAROS CH.
Protected Area
Muthurajawela
Why dive here
With 91+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, giant moray eels, humpback whales, orcas and sea turtles - PHAROS CH. offers some of Hikkaduwa & South Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest March, April, May.
The *Pharos Ch.* isn't your typical Sri Lankan wreck. While the South Coast boasts plenty of coral-encrusted rocks, this is a proper cargo vessel, sunk in 1992 and then, unusually, re-floated. What's left now is an intriguing, broken-up hull at just 11 metres, making it perfect for an extended rummage without deep deco considerations. We love dropping onto the deck plates and tracing the outline of what was once a working ship, imagining the chaos that led to her going down. What really sells the *Pharos Ch.* for us is the way the sea has reclaimed it. Schools of fusiliers swirl around the structure, occasionally parting to reveal a moray eel peeking from a crevice. You’ll often find lionfish perched dramatically on the ribs of the hull, and we’ve seen some hefty groupers lurking in the shadows. Visibility can be a bit variable here, so we’d suggest heading out in the morning before the coastal breeze picks up. It’s a genuinely engaging dive for anyone who enjoys exploring a bit of history, particularly those who appreciate a shallow wreck with a story and plenty of fish life.
Typical PHAROS CH. Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to PHAROS CH.
Dive shops near PHAROS CH.
View all dive centres in Hikkaduwa & South CoastReviews for PHAROS CH.
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for PHAROS CH.
PHAROS CH. Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for PHAROS CH., sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (6.45, 79.98) (12km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
29°C
84°F · Range: 27.7–30°C
Air Temperature
26°C
79°F
Wind Speed
5.07 m/s
9.9 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1010.1 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Hikkaduwa & South Coast, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Hikkaduwa & South CoastPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Hikkaduwa & South Coast.
Search stays in Hikkaduwa & South CoastDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near PHAROS CH.
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.